POLICE have urged parents to help curb concerns about Eston youths running amok.

Intimidated residents have voiced fears about groups of youths congregating in Eston.

Now police are imploring parents to help play their part in tackling the problem.

Cleveland Police Superintendent Stewart Swinson said officers patrol the Eston area at relevant times, linked to information and reports from the public, with that information often causing patrol times to alter.

But he added: “We can’t do this alone. There needs to be a responsible attitude taken by the parents of these children.

“The vast majority of children in Redcar and Cleveland are well behaved but there is a hardened minority who act in an anti-social way.

“I would appeal for parents to ask themselves where are your children tonight, who are they associating with, what are they doing? Parents must accept some responsibility.”

His call to parents comes in response to fears voiced by Ann Higgins, of Eston Residents Association, who said people are “intimidated” by congregating groups of up to 30 youths.

She has written to Chief Constable of Cleveland Police Sean Price calling for more action to tackle the problem.

“There needs to be a more visible police presence on the streets,” said Ann, who represents Eston as a Redcar and Cleveland councillor.

“These young people are a law unto themselves and it is worrying with Mischief Night approaching,” added Ann.

But Supt Swinson said “Mischief Night” was not a term he wants using, saying: “They are not causing mischief, they are causing criminal damage. Any damage caused in the run up to Bonfire Night will be treated as criminal damage and I would implore parents to push this message home.”